Statement by Reverend Keith Musa Zondi
Spokesperson of The Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi Foundation
on the passing of Mr Themba Jeremiah Nkosi
It is with profound sadness that the Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi Foundation mourns the untimely passing of Mr Themba Nkosi, who served on the Board of the Foundation since its inception in September 2021.
Mr Nkosi was nominated to the Board by Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who held a deep respect for Mr Nkosi’s encyclopaedic knowledge of historical events relating to the life and legacy of the Prince. Mr Nkosi was a tremendous asset to the work of the Foundation, through which he expressed his commitment to serving South Africa by honouring the truth of our shared past.
His greatest passion was education, which he championed for years through philanthropic work, raising funds to provide resources for the most vulnerable schools. It was natural that he be asked to drive the Foundation’s specific Objective to “Promote education as a priority and a fundamental right, to support research and innovation, and to increase responsible mentorship.”
Mr Nkosi was a man of great personal discipline who believed in intentional living and consistent development of character. His colleagues in the Foundation admired his commitment as a marathon runner, a community worker, and a father who imparted sounds values to his sons.
We will miss his prolific writing and the deeply respectful approach he had towards all people.
On behalf of the Board and the Chairperson of the Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi Foundation, we express our condolences to Mamzoneli, his beloved wife, Lucy, and to their children, Lethokuhle, QhawelamaNgwane and Qophelo.
In gratitude for his service to our nation, may Mr Themba Nkosi rest in peace.